Super Bowl Reporter Was Found Dead in Hotel. Woman Convicted in His Death Was Part of Scheme to Drug and Rob Men

In a troubling case that has captured public attention, two individuals have been convicted in connection with the death of Adan Manzano, a reporter for a Kansas City Telemundo affiliate. Manzano, aged 27, was covering the Super Bowl in February 2025 when his life was tragically cut short. The court proceedings concluded with Danette Colbert found guilty of racketeering and negligent homicide, while Rickey White, described as Colbert’s pimp, was also convicted of racketeering.

The unfortunate circumstances surrounding Manzano’s death were present during his stay at a hotel in Louisiana. Following a night of drinking tequila with Colbert, he was reported to have been drugged with Xanax. His colleagues grew concerned when they were unable to reach him and subsequently requested a wellness check from police. Tragically, Manzano was discovered dead in his hotel bed, having reportedly been deceased for “an estimated eight to 10 hours,” according to details disclosed in court.

Prosecutors emphasised that Colbert and White were integral to a wider operation that involved luring unsuspecting men in New Orleans’ tourist hotspots with malicious intent. The Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office outlined in a press release that the defendants had engaged in a prolonged scheme where they would sedate their victims before stealing their personal belongings, including credit cards and expensive watches.

The trial revealed that Manzano’s encounter with Colbert was not isolated, with testimonies indicating that she had previously defrauded other victims. One individual recounted a harrowing experience, noting that he had lost $100,000 after meeting Colbert under similar circumstances. A third defendant, Christian Anderson, also took part in the scheme but accepted a plea deal and testified against Colbert and White. His plea was on charges of simple robbery and access device fraud.

The jury’s verdict on September 17 resulted in White’s acquittal on manslaughter charges, while Colbert faced the lesser charge of negligent homicide. The district attorney’s office elaborated on White’s pivotal role within the criminal operation, stating that he served as a guide and facilitator in the thefts. Assistant District Attorney Jenny Voss remarked that White was instrumental in instructing Colbert and her accomplices on how to manage the stolen goods and extract funds from the victims’ accounts.

A sentencing hearing has been scheduled for 28 September, during which both Colbert and White will learn of their fates. The outcome of this case has not only wider implications for public safety but also highlights the complex issues surrounding drug use and manipulation in vulnerable situations.

Manzano’s untimely death has left a significant void, particularly for his young daughter. Prior to his death, Manzano’s life was marked by tragedy, having lost his wife, Ashleigh LeeAnn Boyd, in a car accident just a year earlier. Telemundo Kansas City general manager Steve Downing shared poignant insights into Manzano’s character, illustrating his dedication to fatherhood and his desire to be the best parent he could be under challenging circumstances.

The community is left to reckon with the consequences of this case and the impact it has had on those affected. It not only serves as a sobering reminder of the risks in nightlife but also of the vulnerabilities that lie beneath the surface of seemingly innocent encounters. As more details emerge and the sentencing takes place, many will watch closely for justice to be served in honour of Adan Manzano.